MAGNOLIA Database Access – Staff Training Guidelines

About MAGNOLIA
MAGNOLIA is a project funded by the Mississippi Legislature that provides all Mississippians with access to a suite of reliable online research databases. These resources are available through publicly funded schools, libraries, community colleges, universities, and state agencies.

MAGNOLIA gives students and researchers across the state access to academic, peer-reviewed journals and curated, age-appropriate content that is not available through general web searches.

New Access Requirements
As of July 1, 2023, MAGNOLIA users are required by state law to verify their age before entering an access code.

• Users under 18 may only access age-appropriate content.

• Users 18 and older may access the full range of academic content.

Patron Access
Patrons can access MAGNOLIA by visiting https://magnolia.lib.ms.us or by using the link provided on our library’s website.

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STAFF RESPONSIBILITIES

It is essential that all staff:

1. Know the correct access codes for both adult and juvenile users.

2. Ensure that adult access codes are not provided to juvenile patrons under any circumstances.

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Best Practices

Here are suggested practices for complying with these guidelines while maintaining a positive interaction with patrons:

1. Age Verification

   • Check the patron’s age via their library account.

   • Use friendly language to avoid sounding confrontational.

     Instead of saying, “I need to verify your age,” try:
     “Let me check something real quick.”

2. When Age Is Unclear

   • If you cannot verify the patron’s age (e.g., phone requests, indirect contact, or no ID), only provide the juvenile access code.

3. Protect Adult Code Access

   • When other patrons are nearby, write the adult access code on paper rather than speaking it aloud.

4. Explaining Access Limitations
   Be prepared to explain the difference between the codes respectfully and clearly:

   • To a minor:

     “This database includes some content that’s age-restricted, so we’re only able to share this particular code with adult users. But I’d be happy to help you access the resources available for your age group!”

   • To a parent requesting the adult code for their child:

     “Due to legal guidelines, we can only provide the adult access code directly to adult users. If you’d like to access the resource yourself, I’d be happy to share the code with you.”

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Adherence to these guidelines will maintain legal compliance while ensuring that all patrons have appropriate and equitable access to information.

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If you have questions or need clarification, please speak with a supervisor.